What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
creep
Example
The cat crept up on the mouse, trying not to make any noise. [crept: past tense]
Example
He gives me the creeps with his strange behavior. [creeps: noun]
Example
The abandoned house gave me the creeps, so I didn't go inside. [creeps: verb]
freak
Example
She's a fitness freak and goes to the gym every day. [freak: noun]
Example
The freak storm caused a lot of damage to the town. [freak: adjective]
Example
I freaked out when I saw the spider crawling towards me. [freaked: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Freak is more commonly used than creep in everyday language. Freak is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while creep is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between creep and freak?
Both creep and freak are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts. However, freak can be used in a more positive or neutral way, while creep is almost always negative.
